chuckography

The Day Was "In-Tents" ...

The 6th annual American Music Celebration at Freshfields Village Green had a big surprise.

Gary Erwin (a.k.a. Shrimp City Slim) has played and promoted The Blues in this area for many, many years.

At Kiawah he works with the people who monitor the Tourist Tax and, fortunately, they took a liking to blues and root music years ago, and help fund his musical activities down there.

"We included a large tent in the budget this year because, if it rained, the whole event would be cancelled. Our residents, businesses and visitors all would be hurt by inclement weather," said Bill and Marilyn Blizard, co-chairmen of the Accommodations Tax Committee.

"The brand new tent is 40 feet by 90 feet and cost about $2,600. We think it's a smart investment," Bill Blizard continued.

As if to underline that statement, hard rain cells passed through the area about three times Sunday.But, the show went on.

The line up of talent included Eddie C. Campbell, backed by the North Carolina trio The King Bees.

He was followed by Buddy Whittington and the Randy McAllister Band.

McAllister is the drummer but also plays harp and added a Cajun washboard and spoons to this outing.


There is no alternate site available and, luckily, the Kiawah area events have not been interrupted before. The low clouds and winds made a great statement about the wisdom of the two tents.

A smaller one covers and protects the performers and their equipment.


The finale for a music-filled afternoon was Biscuit Miller & The Mix.

Dave Miller (red shirt) grew up in Chicago and now lives in Indianapolis.

He formed the band in 2000 and continues to serve up a soulful, blues-funk stew.

This day there was no rain on his parade.

Here is how the crowd looked in 2009.


(Click on the photos for details.) The dates have already been set for next year. Mark October 7,2012 on your calendar. As Gary says "Rain or shine." Thanks for stopping and listening.

Labels: 40'x90' tent, 6th annual American Music CelebrationEddie. C. Campbell and the King Bees, Biscuit Miller and The Mix, Buddy Whittington and the Randy McAllister Band

posted by chuckography @ 6:54 PM